This week's lowdown: Facebook's crypto wallets

Facebook has unveiled plans for its mobile cryptocurrency wallet, Calibra

The wallet will be integrated into existing Facebook apps including Messenger and WhatsApp.

Last week, Facebook announced it will be creating a decentralised cryptocurrency called Libra. It’s believed the currency will enable faster transactions through Facebook and Instagram, establishing Facebook as a competitive online marketplace.

Libra will be bought from local dispensaries and stored in a mobile wallet called Calibra, and users will be able to transfer Libra to each other via Facebook’s instant messenger apps, including Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp.

Calibra will also be released as a stand-alone app for iOS and Android.

Bill Gates says losing to Google was his “greatest mistake”

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has said his “greatest mistake ever” was allowing Google’s Android to become the world’s largest mobile operating system.

Speaking on stage at a Village Global event in the US, Gates pinned the blame on himself, saying his “mismanagement” caused Microsoft to lose the mobile market, which he believes should have been a “natural thing for Microsoft to win”.

According to Statcounter statistics from May, Google’s Android is installed on over 75% of mobile devices worldwide while Microsoft is present on just 0.24%.

Earlier this year, Microsoft announced it would cease support for the system, now known as Windows 10 Mobile, in December.

Facebook to start paying users for their data

A new Facebook app will allow users to sell data about how they use competitors’ apps.

“Study from Facebook” calls itself a market research program. It will be advertised to specific Facebook users, and participants must be aged 18+.

Once a participant has downloaded the app and opted in, it will track how they use other apps on their phone. Facebook promises not to track sensitive data such as user IDs and passwords, or content such as photos, videos and messages.

The tech giant also promises not to share any data with third parties or use the data gathered to target advertising.

In return for using the app, users will be compensated, although Facebook is not specific about how.

Study from Facebook is only available in the US and India for now, but keep your eyes peeled for a UK release surely coming soon.